Automated credit card messages are best ignored

How it works:
Automated telemarketing calls promise to lower interest rates on consumers' credit cards. Not only are these calls a nuisance and in violation of U.S. do-not-call laws, but some companies behind the calls are ripping off consumers by charging large upfront fees to negotiate lower interest rates with credit card companies, which is something consumers can do on their own for free. The automated message invariably does not include the name of the company but may claim to be with Card Services or Card Holder Services. The consumer is directed to dial another number to be connected to a live person, who asks for credit card numbers and other information. According to Better Business Bureau complaints, companies are failing to uphold money-back guarantees and not refunding money in cases where they were unsuccessful in lowering rates.

What to do
: Hang up and do not call the number offered by the automated message. Put your phone number on the federal Do Not Call list, at donotcall.gov.

Whom to report it to: You can report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission via
donotcall.gov
or contact the agency directly at (877) 382-4357 or
ftc.gov
.